The Bonifacio Crossing 2024: a record-breaking edition with Neda el Món
9/28/2024
This edition not only met but exceeded all expectations, thanks to the perfect combination of weather conditions and the dedication and experience of the swimmers.
Within the available time window, Monday, September 23, was identified as the ideal day for the crossing. The forecasts predicted unbeatable conditions, which allowed us to map out a new route that shortened the distance compared to previous editions. These two factors, combined with the skill and preparation of our pilots, were key to our nedaddictes achieving incredible feats, breaking all previously established records in the crossing of this legendary strait.
The Sharks team, composed of Jorge Pérez, Danila Novikov, and Ferran Fernández, delivered a stellar performance, completing the crossing in an impressive time of 3 hours and 10 minutes, breaking the absolute record of the crossing. Not far behind, the Dolphins team, consisting of Fernando Pruñonosa, Pedro Travesset, Belinda McGinley, Eric Danion, and Lucas Carrascosa, recorded an excellent time of 3 hours and 30 minutes, also breaking all previous times, leaving Belinda as the new record holder for the Bonifacio Strait.
Meanwhile, the Berlin team, made up of Boris Najafov, Stefan Silberbeg, and Leonie Rammelsberg, broke a different record: the shortest distance covered. Thanks to flawless execution, they managed to swim the shortest route between Corsica and Sardinia, with 12.1 km in 4 hours and 21 minutes. An outstanding achievement that highlights the importance of strategy in such events.
Also noteworthy was the impressive performance of Sinem Serinkan, the Turkish representative who crossed the Bonifacio Strait solo, completing the crossing in 5 hours and 24 minutes. This challenge was not only a personal victory for her, but it also filled her with motivation for her next goal: the crossing between Rodas and Marmaris in just two weeks. Her achievement highlights the toughness and emotional reward of open water swimming at an individual level, where determination is key.
The event concluded with a celebration shared between swimmers and staff, united by their effort and passion for the sea, celebrating the success they had achieved. The happiness and pride on their faces were palpable, reflecting the spirit of perseverance and camaraderie that characterizes these types of crossings.
Now, all eyes are on the second crossing, which will take place soon, featuring the experienced French swimmer Marie-Pierre and our CEO, Marc Caballé, who is looking to improve on his performance from last year.
The Bonifacio Crossing 2024 has been an extraordinary event, pushing swimmers to their limits and offering an unforgettable experience full of challenges. For all those who are part of the open water swimming community, such events represent not only a physical challenge but also an opportunity to deeply connect with nature and oneself.